Government Reduces Toll Rates for Users of Partially Open National Expressways Effective February 15

The government has revised the toll fee regulations for National Expressways that are not fully operational. These changes will be effective from February 15, as announced by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways. The amendment to the National Highways Fee Determination of Rates and Collection Rules, 2008, aims to adjust toll charges for incomplete expressway sections.

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Currently, tolls on National Expressways are 25% higher than those on regular National Highways. This is because expressways offer a controlled-access, faster travel experience. However, this fee applies even if the expressway isn't fully open end-to-end. The new rule will charge a lower toll rate, similar to that of National Highways, for the completed sections of such expressways.

Amendment Details and Impact

The Ministry clarified that the amendment intends to encourage more users to opt for these partially opened expressway stretches. By doing so, it hopes to reduce congestion on existing National Highway routes that run parallel to these expressways. This change is expected to facilitate quicker movement of goods and passengers while also cutting down pollution caused by traffic jams on older highways.

The revised rule will remain in effect for up to one year from its implementation date or until the expressway becomes fully operational, whichever comes first. This temporary measure is designed to balance user convenience with ongoing infrastructure development.

Under the updated guidelines, when a National Expressway is not fully open, the toll fee will be calculated based on the completed length at a reduced rate applicable to National Highways. This adjustment is part of the government's broader strategy to enhance road travel efficiency and environmental sustainability.

With inputs from PTI